Up the Wahs: Record attendance achieved as home crowd sell-outs set a new benchmark in the NRL.
If you are considering attending one of the final two home games for the Warriors this season and have not yet secured a ticket, you may be out of luck. The club announced on Monday that it has made history as the first team in the NRL to achieve a grand slam of sold-out home games in a single season.
The Warriors have successfully sold out all 10 of their games at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium this year, in addition to their home game against Canberra held in Christchurch.
Currently, the average attendance at Mt Smart for the season stands at 23,684, ranking third among all teams, following the Broncos and Roosters, who play in significantly larger stadiums.
This accomplishment marks not only a milestone for an NRL club but is also believed to be a first for any sporting franchise in New Zealand.
“This is an extraordinary achievement, and we take great pride in it,” stated Warriors chief executive Cameron George.
“Above all, this recognition belongs to our members and fans who have consistently supported the team and the club. They are the true heroes, the finest fans one could hope for.”
The match against the Eels scheduled for this Friday night officially sold out on Monday morning, while the last few tickets for the encounter with Canterbury Bankstown were claimed on Sunday, nearly four weeks prior to the game day on August 23.
Coach Andrew Webster also praised the fans, particularly noting the enthusiastic support for kicker Chanel Harris-Tavita during Friday night’s 28-16 victory over the Tigers.
“The fans’ understanding of the game, especially regarding Chanel’s kick last weekend, and their unwavering support for him is remarkable. They truly had his back, and I appreciate that,” Webster remarked.
“I mentioned it last year when we faced a four-game losing streak and returned to a sold-out crowd. This year, although we have not yet achieved our desired results on the field, they have remained steadfast.”
Despite the positive news regarding ticket sales, the Warriors face a challenging path to replicate last season’s success in reaching the playoffs. A single additional loss will leave their fate dependent on other outcomes with six rounds still to play.
